I am no more special than any other young person trying to find their way. However dismal that sounds, there is a comfort in knowing this. It takes the pressure off. As young people we are in a perpetual state of trying to figure out what our life is supposed to be all about.

But, I can’t predict my future. I can only control how I react to it.

One of the hardest things a young person can do in today’s world of constant connection, is to disconnect. Get away from all of the distraction. Everything is pulling you in a million different directions. You somehow know what all of your friends are doing at any given moment. Then look up from your phone and realize that you forgot what you were doing. Gain some clarity by focussing on your own shit for once. Stop doing shit you don’t want to do.

You don’t need to make a five year plan. You just need to know what you want to do right now.

Ask yourself what kind of person you want to be. What do you value? Preface every decision with that in mind. Is what you are about to do going to help you become that person? Is it going to help you become the best version of yourself?

If you want to accomplish a goal, stop being so focussed on the goal itself. Become obsessed with the daily grind. Put in work. Persevere. Stop wishing and expect it to be hard.

Waste no more time trying to figure out what you’re passionate about. Instead, become the best. Do your best. You’re probably not living up to your potential. Doesn’t that piss you off? The only thing you’re up against in life is your potential. There is no finish line, because you can always do better.

There is no perfect career path for anyone. There are parts of life and work that just suck. Figure out the kind of suck that you are willing to put up with. Passion will come later — once you actually get good at something. But, no one can take away your ability to show up and work your ass off.

You already know what it is that you want to do. But you don’t do it. Why? Why are you doing that to yourself? Stop being so afraid. No one cares. Whatever you’re worried about today will soon be forgotten. So, take a fucking chance on yourself.